JACKSON – The third time wasn’t a charm for Bogue Chitto’s Lady Cats. The defending Class 1A State champion H.W. Byers Lady Lions went on a tear Friday morning in the first game of the MHSAA State Tournament and whipped the Lady Cats 72-35 for a third straight year.

Senior guard Rheagan Welch led the Lady Cats (27-8) with 11 points. Zariah Matthews added 9 points. They trailed 45-16 at halftime.

The Lady Lions (27-5) were Sha’Dai Nolen with 12 points. Richenda Crucher added 11 points.

Byers advances to next Thursday’s championship game.